Negros Occidental Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer reiterated that he will protect President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in connection with the appointment of Aurelio Gerardo Valderrama as Sugar Regulatory Administration acting Board member, representing the planters.
“As a loyal supporter, leader, friend, a family and the President’s Personal Adviser, I will protect him especially in choosing the right leader for the sugar industry,” Ferrer said in a statement.
He noted that Valderrama was known as a hardcore “pink supporter” and had uttered unfavorable remarks against the President during the campaign period for the May 9 elections.
“If he still holds even an iota of delicadeza, Valderrama should resign from his post,” Ferrer said.
Valderrama, who admitted to have openly supported the presidential bid of then Vice President Leni Robredo, took his oath of office recently before Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Benitez, also a strong ally of Marcos Jr.
“I am here to protect BBM and the BBM supporters in Negros, whose sentiment is likewise paramount on this matter,” Ferrer said, stressing that “a good and healthy working relationship with the President is crucial, and not just based on the qualification and experience that he (Valderrama) has as a sugar planter”.
Ferrer added that he will never forget Valderrama’s foul words against him, through text messages, that he said provoked him.
“If you have time now, be a gentleman enough. Step down from the post for the sake of delicadeza. You don’t deserve to be in that position. Show some respect to the President and to yourself,” Ferrer said, apparently referring to Valderrama./GB
